The Western Cape Mobility Department says the provincial Traffic Services conducted 247 integrated operations across the province from 9 to 15 February, combining high-visibility road safety enforcement with targeted action to curb the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).
Working with the Western Cape Agriculture Department, officers reportedly checked 8 143 vehicles, including six carrying livestock. The roadblocks issued 1 186 fines and impounded four vehicles, helping protect the province’s agricultural economy.
According to Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku, these roadblocks play a critical role in monitoring livestock movement, preventing the virus from spreading to new areas, and protecting our farmers, animals, and national food supply.
“Earlier this week, I was on the ground along the N7 in Moorreesburg supporting efforts to curb the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease. – Thank you to everyone for your patience and cooperation,” said Sileku
In one incident, on 14 February, a truck driver was reportedly arrested near Beaufort West for travelling at 111 km/h in an 80 km/h zone. According to the department, the Average Speed Over Distance (ASOD) cameras recorded repeated violations between Beaufort West and Aberdeen. Two passengers were in the vehicle at the time, leaving them stranded.
At the same time total of 66 arrests were made during the week, including 40 for driving under the influence, nine for fraudulent documentation, and several others for reckless and negligent driving, obstruction and related offences.
“Driving with fraudulent documentation is a serious offence because it undermines the system that keeps our roads safe for everyone,” said Maxine Bezuidenhout, Chief Director: Traffic Management.
Bezuidenhout says technology linked to the NaTIS system continues to assist officers in detecting fake licences and vehicle papers immediately, strengthening compliance and road safety.
Tragically, 20 crashes claimed 20 lives this week. Pedestrians accounted for 14 of these fatalities, again highlighting their vulnerability on our province’s roads.
